Tuesday, December 15, 2015

The Next Big Quake is Due

For those living in California, earthquake predictions are a
part of life. So much so that most minor tremors are often not even noticed.
Warnings of an impending big one are usually given about as much importance as
announcements that the sky is falling.

No One Is Crying Wolf

Experts at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) say that a
big quake will hit the state in the next two and a half years. By big they mean
a 5.0 magnitude, and perhaps even higher – up to 6.1 or more. The warning is
based on extended research using the best technology available today.
Earthquakes occur when the underground stress between the tectonic plates reach
acritical point and the plates shift. The small and moderate quakes that are a
common occurrence in the state do relieve some of the stress, but they can also
cause the plates to shift to a more volatile position, making a big quake more
likely. According to JPL, there is a 99% chance of a 5.0 magnitude quake
hitting the Los Angeles area within 3 years. No part of the state is immune
from the risk.

The U.S. Geological Survey says that the risk may not be so
great. They say it is about 85%. But does that 14% reduction really mean much?
Whichever source you believe, the chances are that a big quake is coming and
coming soon. These are not doomsayers standing on street corners saying that
the end is near. These are predictions from 2 of the most reputed scientific
organizations in the world.

Earthquakes Are
Inevitable

California has survived major quakes in the past and will do
so in the future. The technology for earthquake prediction is improving and new
materials and building systems are reducing the damage they cause. But
earthquakes are the most powerful force of nature and will never be a way to
completely negate the damage and loss they cause. Many people think that
federal and state aid for earthquake victims will help them recover. It will
not. This aid is meant only to provide immediate assistance to enable those
affected to survive. It will not help them to get back on their feet and
rebuild their lives.

Are You Prepared?

Being prepared for a quake does not mean building a concrete
bunker and never leaving it. Preparedness is understanding the damage that a
severe quake can cause and taking steps to protect your family and property if
it should happen. The California Department
of Public Health portal on Earthquakes contains a great deal of information
on quakes and how you can prepare for them. More information can be obtained
online and from municipal authorities. No matter what you do, damage to your
home will always be a risk. The only protection you have and the only way to
recover from it is with earthquake insurance. Your homeowner’s policy will not
cover quake damage. You will need a separate policy for
this. If you do not have coverage or are worried that what you have may not be
enough, contact an insurance agent to learn what you need to do to protect your
home and your future. Remember, the next one may be really big.

About Allied Brokers

Allied Brokers is a full-service insurance brokerage. Founded in 1954, we provide insurance products throughout California and several other states. We have insurance policies and services for any of your insurance needs: Auto, Homeowners, Condominiums, Apartments, Earthquake, Flood, Renters, Business, Health, Life, Motorcycle, Boat, RV and Estate Planning. Experience the "can do" attitude of our agents.